Serving Fernandina Beach for over 100 years.

 Who We Are

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs , the GFWC Florida Federation of Women’s Clubs , and serve with other clubs in this area as members of GFWC Florida District 4. Members are engaged in community service programs, promoting arts and culture, civic engagement and outreach, education and libraries, the environment, and promote health and wellness. We support the GFWC Signature Program: Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention and the GFWC Juniors’ Special Program: Advocates for Children.

In 1952, the GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach began sponsoring Little Women, a club for high school girls 10th thru 12th grade, and it continues to be an active and vibrant club.

We have a number of affiliate organizations that we support including: Heifer International, Boggy Creek, Reading for Literacy, Florida Disaster Relief, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, March of Dimes, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY), Amelia Community Theater, Hope House/Salvation Army, and Micah’s Place, as well as others throughout the Community and the State.

Mission

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach’s objective shall be to serve the educational, literary, scientific, and charitable interests of its members; to encourage movement for civic betterment and to promote spirit in the community.

Our Club and Members
Featured in the News

Women Working Together
Amelia Islander Magazine

GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach
2026-2028 Executive Board

A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT

It is my honor and joy to greet you today as part of the Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach, an organization with a legacy that stretches over a century. Since our founding in 1920, we have held steadfast to our mission: to serve the members of our community with dedication, compassion, and enthusiasm. Throughout the years, our club has been a force for positive change, continually striving to uplift and support those around us. Our journey has been marked by incredible milestones, none more meaningful than the construction of our own clubhouse in 1957. This cherished home has become the heart of our fellowship, a place where friendships are forged, ideas are nurtured, and the spirit of community thrives. When we gather, we remember that each meeting, each project, and each act of kindness adds another chapter to our rich history. Our clubhouse is not just a building; it is a symbol of hope, unity, and the unwavering commitment we pledge to make Fernandina Beach a better place for all. Through our collective efforts, we continue to inspire one another and, together, we build a legacy that will endure for generations. We welcome new members, creative ideas, and embrace the challenges we may have ahead. Together, we can spark inspiration, foster community, and make a lasting impact. Please join us.

Fondly, Mary Millette

2026-2028 Executive Board

Mary Millette, President

Mary Millette
President

Lisa Row
1st Vice President

Kathye Reily Treasurer

Ann Garber
2nd Vice President

Stacy Condray Recording Secretary

Laura Hardin
3rd Vice President

Anne Merkey
Corresponding Secretary

Kim Gavin
4th Vice President

Mary Powell Parliamentarian

 
Mary+Powell+HS.jpg

In May 2016, GFWC Woman's Club of Fernandina Beach member, Mary Powell, became GFWC Florida President for 2016-2018.

Our History

Organized 1920 ● Federated 1922 ● Incorportated 1956

The GFWC Woman's Club of Fernandina Beach was organized in 1920 by twenty-seven ladies who met in the city library with the goal of doing everything possible to improve their city, educationally and physically. Thus, the GFWC Woman's Club of Fernandina Beach was born.

In January 1960, ground was broken for the new Club House on land which was donated by Mr. C. E Ward. The completed building is in a perfect location, three blocks from the beach, where it sits amongst large live oaks and colorful azaleas.

To learn more about the GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach, click the link below for our descriptive annual history compiled by club member Marilyn Showalter.

CLUB HISTORY
 

Many thanks to the
Amelia Island Museum of History
for scanning our many years of scrapbooks.
Click HERE and view the early days of the
GFWC Woman’s Club of Fernandina Beach.

Black and white photo of a school nurse checking a child's throat while other children and a teacher watch in a classroom.
Black and white photo of five women in can-can costumes with ruffled skirts and bodices, performing a dance. The caption below mentions they are part of a can-can chorus line, part of the Fernandina Beach Woman's Club, and includes names of Elovse So
A black and white photograph of two women dressed in costumes, standing in front of a decorative background. They are holding hands, and one of them is playing a piano. The caption mentions the women are Elizabeth Hall and Charlene Roberts, participa
Black and white photograph of women at the Fernandina Beach Woman's Club meeting, arranged in two rows. The caption lists their names and titles, including Mrs. Gilbert Wightton, Mrs. Hugh Evans, Mrs. Exteen Corbett, Mrs. J. P. Ewing, Mrs. George T.
A vintage black and white newspaper clipping featuring a woman in a kitchen, standing next to a stove. The headline reads, "New Clubhouse Is a Reality For 201 Fernandina Women." The photo caption mentions Mrs. J. P. Ewing and describes the kitchen as
Black and white photograph of a group of women standing outdoors behind a newspaper headline that reads 'Big Blow-up For The 1956 March of Dimes.' The women are smiling and wearing coats, with some holding balloons shaped like animals or figures. The
Four women dressed in vintage clothing, wearing hats and jewelry, posing together and smiling, likely at a social event or gathering.
Five women in vintage dresses standing on a stage with large palm leaves and a curtain backdrop, engaged in conversation at a social event.
Newspaper article about a woman's club setting up a thrift shop downtown, with a black-and-white photo showing the thrift shop's facade and a person standing outside.